BEHIND THE PLATE: Find authentic Indian food at Cafe of India in Maynard

Saturday

Jan 21, 2017 at 5:45 AMMar 2, 2017 at 11:52 AM

Holly Camero hcamero@wickedlocal.com @BeaconVillager

Ramesh Khadka credits his father, Padam Khadka, with the success of his new restaurant, Cafe of India in Maynard.

"My father is the chef," he said. "He has 15 years experience cooking Indian food. He worked for eight years at India Palace in Somerville."

Khadka said a former boss taught him the ins and outs of running a restaurant, giving him the confidence to open a restaurant of his own.

Cafe of India, which opened Dec. 2, 2016, features authentic Indian cuisine from the northern and southern regions of India, Khadka said. Guests can feast on a selection of chicken, lamb or goat and seafood dishes, seasoned with Indian spices and sauces, as well as vegetarian options. The restaurant recently received a liquor license and will soon be adding children’s dishes to the menu.

As the scent of what the menu describes as “exotic spices” wafted through the air, Khadka took a moment to answer a few questions.

Do you cook?

No, but I am learning. Sometimes I have to help out in the kitchen.

What is your role?

I am the manager. I take care of guests and organize the restaurant. I have to handle whatever comes in the restaurant.

What are some of your biggest challenges?

It is hard to find workers, particularly those that know how to cook Indian food.

What is your favorite dish?

The Chicken Tikka Masala because it’s sweet and the chicken is very good. It is also a customer favorite. I also like the Tandoori Chicken.

What are your future plans?

I have no immediate plans, but once this restaurant takes off, I'd like to open another one -- someday.